Facts about Parkinson's Disease

If you've watched the film "Saving Private Ryan", you'd noticed that the main character. Captain John Miller, often has episodes of hand tremors, which suggests he may be suffering from an early onset of Parkinson's disease. What is this disease and how does it affect the body?

The brain, being the control center, is responsible for sending nervous signals to the entire body in order for it to function normally in the area of movement. This is thanks to the work of a substance called dopamine which is produced in the "substantia nigra" part of the brain. However, when cells inside the substantia nigra begin to die, dopamine levels drop and begin to give way for Parkinson's to creep in once it reaches the 60-80% decline rate.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for Parkinson's and it will only continue to rage on until it completely strips one of his/her movements and cognitive abilities. Though it's frightening to think about its debilitating effects, Parkinson's can be detected through prominent symptoms that usually happen in stages:

1. Early stage (constipation, loss of smell, illegible handwriting, voice changes, stooped posture)

2. Movement impairment (shakings, slow gestures, stiffness of limbs, body imbalance)

3. Secondary symptoms (blank expressions, muffled speech, tendency to fall backwards, being stuck while walking)

There are several forms of treatment which can help ease the inconvenience and effects of Parkinson's though it doesn't completely eliminate the disease itself.

- Medication. As mentioned previously, Parkinson's is mostly due to low dopamine levels so doctors will mostly prescribe medications that help stimulate the production of dopamine such as levodopa.

- Deep brain stimulation (DBS). This surgical treatment is usually reserved for those with advanced Parkinson's or inconsistent responses to levodopa. Surgeons will implant electrodes into a specific area of the brain and connect it to a generator implanted in the chest near the collarbone which sends electrical pulses and help ease symptoms.

- Exercise. This may sound absurd to some, but light exercise can help boost muscle strength, balance, and flexibility. Spending a few minutes gardening, swimming, or stretching can also improve your overall mood. Be sure to consult your physician about which form of exercise suits you best.

- Get a therapy pet. Having four-legged friends as a companion has been proven to be effective in comforting and accompanying those struggling with loneliness associated with Parkinson's.